Technology companies sent stocks soaring Wednesday after Intel and other big companies posted surprisingly strong earnings. The technology-focused Nasdaq composite had its biggest one-day jump in six months.

The casino industry continues to struggle in the third quarter, with gamblers still clamping down on their spending. Such ongoing belt-tightening, coupled with increased expenses, pushed Wynn Resorts Ltd.'s profit down for the second consecutive quarter Tuesday.

CEOs had a rough 2008. First, their image sank to new lows as the Wall Street and economic collapse fanned public outrage. Then most, even those far removed from the financial sector, took a blow to their wealth, as well.